A Step-By-Step Guide To Moving With Pets And Kids

Moving into a new home can be one of the most hectic situations of your life. You’re not just relocating all your belongings, you’re changing your life. It’s no wonder that some people believe moving into a new home is more stressful than getting a divorce. As stressful as moving can be, preparing kids and/or pets could make it even more stressful — as the emotional burden they carry throughout the process can be even greater.

For pets and young children, routines are very important. Children experience constant changes as they grow and develop, so the security of familiarity — such as backyards or bedrooms — provides some much-needed stability in their lives. For pets, any changes to their routines and surroundings can be upsetting. In both cases, moving to a new house can throw their lives into upheaval. Unless you pay special attention to their needs before, during and after the move, children and pets could become withdrawn, depressed or scared.

Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to make the moving process potentially less stressful for your pets and children. For example, you can help kids adjust to the idea of moving by letting them choose the color of their new bedrooms. With pets, you can help them adjust by taking them for long car rides (if you’re moving long-distance). Packing your children’s favorite items in the same box can help them feel more comfortable by knowing where they are, not to mention easily accessible after move. Leaving pets with a sitter could help to keep them occupied. Once you arrive at the new house, you can help kids and pets settle in by arranging their belongings as similar as possible to the layout in the old house.